Sheffield Super-Lightweight star Dalton Smith can take another step closer to winning the prestigious British Title outright when he makes the second defence of his belt against Billy Allington at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham this Saturday February 18, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

One of the hottest young properties in world boxing, ‘Thunder’ (13-0, 10 KOs) enjoyed a stellar 2022, winning all four of his fights in impressive fashion and picking up the WBC International Silver and British Super-Lightweight Titles to further cement himself as a World Champion in waiting.

In what is sure to be his first headline fight of many at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, Smith landed the prestigious Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt by outclassing and finishing local rival Sam O’maison in six rounds to collect his fourth pro title in August.

The 26-year-old former amateur sensation rounded off an incredible 2022 by successfully defending his British 140lbs crown for the first time against Birmingham’s Kaisee Benjamin at Manchester Arena last November and 2023 promises to be an even bigger year for the Sheffield Wednesday fanatic. 

“The British Title has a lot of history,” said Smith. “Every British fighter wants it and I’ve always said I want the British Title for keeps. I think it was after the O’maison win when I got home and I was looking at the belt and that’s when it hit me, what I’d achieved. That’s when it really hit me. I remember watching the ringwalk back thinking, ‘wow’, if that’s what I can do in my first headliner then there’s going to be some special nights coming.

“Billy Allington is my next opponent. Billy is experienced, he’s durable and I’m expecting him to be fit, he’s got a good work rate. I just feel Billy will struggle with the movement, the angles, the power and the speed. I think slowly over the rounds he’ll run out of ideas. The British Title is definitely staying with me. The longer the fight goes on the more I’ll suss him out. I’m very confident I can get this one finished within the distance.”

Smith put pen to paper on a new multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing in December that will see him fight exclusively on DAZN in 2023. The former Team GB standout, who is managed by STN Sports, believes he has the perfect team behind him to help push him towards the very top of the 140lbs division. 

“When my contract was up everyone was on me,” said Smith. “There was a lot of attention, and a lot of promoters were after me. It was nice to see because it proved my name is getting out there and I’m showing people what Dalton Smith is about. The top promoters are wanting me in their stables so it shows that the hard work is paying off.

“The team that Matchroom have behind them, that’s where I’ve been since I had my debut in Nottingham. It’s not just Eddie and Frank, it filters down to the media team, the ticket girls and that. Everyone gets on and it’s good vibes. I’ve got one of the best teams in boxing, and that’s their job to go out and do their best for me and that’s what they’re doing.

“The nights I’ve dreamt of are within touching distance for me now. For 18 months I’ve got to work hard. I always work hard but this is the most crucial time for me in my career. If you want something, this is how it is. It’s true grit and hard work. I believe I’ve got the talent. I believe I’m going to be up there with the very best Sheffield has produced. So I’ve got to handle that pressure. There’s some big nights coming.”

Smith vs. Allington is part of a big night of action in Nottingham, local hero Leigh Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) puts his WBA Featherweight World Title on the line against Mexican dangerman Mauricio Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs) in the main event, Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs) takes on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title, Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) fights late replacement Israel Duffus (20-8, 17 KOs), former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner, popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds, Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion Sam Maxwell (16-1, 11 KOs) faces Shaun Cooper (13-4) over six rounds and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Aaron Bowen makes his professional debut at Middleweight against Mathieu Gomes (5-4, 5 KOs).

Limited remaining tickets for Wood vs. Lara can be purchased via Stage Front.

Dalton Smith will make the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington on the undercard of Leigh Wood’s highly anticipated WBA Featherweight World Title showdown with avoided Mexican Mauricio Lara at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday February 18, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

The Sheffield star (13-0, 10 KOs) recently put pen to paper on a new multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn following a stellar 2022 that saw the 25-year-old remain undefeated, and ‘Thunder’ is set to kick off an even busier year against Surrey’s former English Champion Allington (10-1-4) as he looks to win the prestigious British Title outright before moving onto the European scene. 

Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs), who also recently extended his promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, returns to the scene of his impressive stoppage triumph over former World Champion Miguel Vazquez in March last year to take on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title ahead of what promises to be a huge year for the ‘The Diva’.

Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) has ended all four of his fights inside the distance since turning pro last February, including a brutal second round stoppage win over Jose Gregorio Ulrich last time out caused by a perfectly timed uppercut, and the former Team GB Olympian steps up next month in an Eliminator for the English Cruiserweight Title against Scunthorpe’s Dec Spelman (19-6, 9 KOs).

Former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) returned to winning ways by stopping Sean Cairns in four rounds last June after losing his EBU Title to Jason Cunningham in May 2021, and the 31-year-old from Birmingham begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs) as he aims to get back to title action later in the year. 

Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight following his points loss to Austin Williams on the Canelo vs. Golovkin 3 undercard last September, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner after inking a deal with Eddie Hearn last September and popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds. 

Tickets for Wood vs. Lara are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP)

Matchroom Fight Pass members can purchase tickets NOW.  Priority ticket info has been emailed directly to eligible members.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from midday tomorrow (Thursday January 12).

Manchester, England – (September 28, 2022) – Natasha Jonas, Dalton Smith, Frazer Clarke and many more will light up a blockbuster night of boxing on Saturday, 12th November.

The unified world WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine super-welterweight titles will all be on the line at the AO Arena in Manchester, England when Natasha ‘Miss GB’ Jonas faces defending Marie-Eve Dicaire.

Jonas (12-2-1, 8 KOs) conquered Patricia Berghult for the WBC belt earlier this month in her home city of Liverpool. The coveted green strap joined her pink WBO belt in her trophy cabinet – and now the former Olympian wants to add Dicaire’s IBF belt and Ring Magazine titles to her collection and write herself another glorious chapter in boxing’s history books.

Her quest for global domination takes Jonas into a clash with Canada’s two-time world champion Dicaire (18-1-0, 1 KO) in what promises to be a momentous world championship encounter with all three titles on the line.

Coming just weeks after a historic night of celebration for women’s boxing takes place on October 15th at The O2 in London – when Savannah Marshall faces Claressa Shields for the undisputed middleweight world titles – the contest further highlights the strength of the women’s sport in what has been a gala year for female boxing.

Southpaw Dicaire suffered her only professional defeat to date to Shields back in March 2021 following a unanimous decision. But she reclaimed her then vacant IBF title when she produced a stunning stoppage win over Cynthia Lozano last December in Montreal.

The main event between Jonas and Diclaire in Manchester tops the bill in what promises to be an unmissable BOXXER bill screened live and exclusively in the UK and Republic of Ireland on Sky Sports Boxing.

It includes a tantalising domestic co-main event between two of the country’s hottest super-lightweight prospects as champion Dalton ‘Thunder’ Smith (12-0, 10 KO’s) defends his British title against challenger Kaisee Benjamin (16-1-1, 6 KOs).

BOXXER earned the right to promote the mandated British championship bout between the two rivals when it won the purse bid earlier this month.

Former Team GB sensation Smith scored an impressive sixth-round stoppage win when he headlined in Sheffield last month – his third consecutive win inside the distance – to win the vacant title and take his number of professional stoppage wins to ten, including a 2021 TKO of BOXXER Series tournament semi-finalist Lee Appleyard.

Benjamin, from Birmingham, has 16 wins from 17 professional appearances and is undefeated in his last 13 fights. In June, he celebrated a unanimous decision win over Serge Ambomo at the Coventry Skydome to maintain his status as Smith’s mandatory opponent.

And Frazer ‘Big Fraze’ Clarke (3-0, 3 KO’s) will bid to continue his impressive and rapid rise up the heavyweight rankings as he takes on his toughest professional challenge to date in the form of experienced veteran Kamil Sokolowski (11-26-3, 4 KOs).

Clarke has won all three of his professional bouts thus far with three devastating knockouts – and the Tokyo 2020 Team GB Olympic bronze medalist will be hungry to add another stoppage to his burgeoning highlight reel in front of a packed crowd at the AO Arena – just a stone’s throw away from the home of his beloved football club, Manchester United.

Earlier in the evening, Manchester’s own Bradley ‘The Sting’ Rea (14-0, 6 KO’s) will put his unbeaten record on the line when he takes on English middleweight champion Tyler Denny (14-2-3). Rea has developed a reputation for an all-action style and will look to make this another crowd-pleasing contest for his hometown fans.

BOXXER CEO & Founder Ben Shalom, said: “This will be a massive night of boxing in Manchester.

“Tasha Jonas can etch her name in the history books by winning the WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine titles if she beats Marie-Eve Dicaire. I think this is Tash’s toughest test to date and it promises to be a spectacular women’s fight, just weeks after the iconic all-female card in London, on 15th October.

“In the co-main, Dalton Smith will be hoping to win the British super-lightweight title outright in what is a very, very tough challenge against Kaisee Benjamin. It’s a big fight and it will have huge consequences for the winner.

“Dalton is one of the finest young fighters in the country. We saw recently in Sheffield how his popularity continues to grow. Kaisee is a brilliant talent too and he’ll be hungry to pull off a major upset

“Frazer Clarke will go right to the top of this very exciting heavyweight division. He has a huge personality and the talent and commitment to go all the way. This fight against Kamil Sokolowski will offer a sterner test against experienced competition that fans will look forward to seeing

“Bradley Rea against Tyler Denny is a great fight. I saw Tyler in one of the fights of the year when he won the English title against River Wilson-Bent. This will be a huge test for Brad early on in his career. It is a compelling fight and possibly it could be the fight of the night. Brad has the chance to make a real statement in front of his home crowd on the big stage.”

Adam Smith, Sky Sports Head of Boxing Development, added: “Remember, remember the 12th of November, because this Fight Night will deliver more fireworks just a week after Bonfire Night.

“This truly is a great card, taking place in the iconic big fight city of Manchester, and it will be a night which promises to be a historic occasion with Tasha fighting for the unified world titles, just weeks after our iconic evening of women’s boxing at The O2 in London.

“And we’ll have a real spectacle in store with Kaisee Benjamin challenging Dalton Smith for the British title. Both men are hot prospects, who have huge futures ahead of them. This fight has all the makings of a domestic classic.

“Plus, after the controversy of his last outing in Liverpool, I’m delighted to see Frazer Clarke stepping it up against Kamil Sokolowski. A big man for a big night of boxing, live on Sky Sports – including the legendary Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton versus Mexican great Marco Antonio Barrera, which takes place in an unmissable separate show by Europa Combat on the same evening, following the BOXXER card.”

To register for pre-sale tickets for 12th November, go to Boxxer.com.

BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON VENUE-SHARE WITH RICKY HATTON vs MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA & DAN HARDY vs DIEGO SANCHEZ EXHIBITION MATCHES, PROMOTED EXCLUSIVELY BY EUROPA COMBAT ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12th

BOXXER ticket holders

Ticket holders for the Sky Sports BOXXER event will be able to access the AO Arena from 16:45pm.

These tickets will also grant free access to the Hatton v Barrera exhibition match, promoted by Europa Combat, which is expected to begin around 10:30pm after the BOXXER main event and show has concluded.

Europa Combat ticket holders:

Tickets for the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show will also enable free access to the Sky Sports BOXXER event taking place in the AO Arena from 16:45pm to around 10pm on 12th November. The Hatton v Barrera show will take place after the BOXXER event finishes.

FAQs

1. If I’ve got a ticket to the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show, can I also attend the Sky Sport BOXXER event?

Absolutely, your ticket gives you free access to the BOXXER event and you can arrive at any time from 4:45pm onwards.

2. If I leave the AO Arena, will I be able to come back in?

Apologies but you will not be allowed to leave the venue and come back in. This is standard venue policy.

3. Can I transfer my ticket to a friend or family, so I can watch the BOXXER event and then they can watch the Hatton v Barrera & Hardy v Sanchez show?

We are sorry but all tickets are non-transferrable.

4. Why are there two separate events?

They are two separate events, which have been organised by two separate promoters, with Europa Combat taking over the venue when the BOXXER event has concluded. But purchasing a single ticket for either event will give access to both events.

5. Do I sit in the same seat for both events?

Yes, your seat will be the same for both events.

Dalton Smith stopped Sam O’Maison in round six of their 12-round junior welterweight bout in Sheffield, England.

In round three, Smith dropped O’Maison with a quick right hand. In round five, O’Maison was bleeding on his forehead,

In round six, It was a left that was followed by a right Smith ended things with another booming right that put O’Maison down for a third and final time and the fight was stopped at 2:52.

Smith, 139.2 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. O’Maison, 139.1 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 17-4-1.

Ryan Avenges Defeat; Decisions Farias

Sandy Ryan avenged her lone professional blemish by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Erica Farias in a super lightweight bout.

Ryan, 139.25 lbs of Derby, ENG won by scores of 98-92 and 96-94 twice and is now 4-1. Farias, 138.5 lbs of Escobar, ARG is 27-6

Fisher Takes Out Reissinger in 2

Fan-favorite Johnny Fisher remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Michal Reissinger in round two of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Fisher landed a booming right that put Reissinger down and the fight was stopped at 39 seconds.

Fisher, 241.4 lbs of Romford, ENG is 6-0 with five knockouts. Reissinger, 249.5 lbs of Kozomin, CZE is 3-2.

Jordan Thompson Hangs on to Decision Ducar

Jordan Thompson barely remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Vasil Ducar in a cruiserweight bout.

In round 10, Ducar landed a right and left that was followed by two more right hands to send Thompson to the deck. Thompson was able to get to his feet and beat the bell count and final bell.

Thompson, 198.1 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by scores of 97-92 and 96-93 twice and is now 14-0. Ducar, 197.4 lbs of Brno, CZE is now 11-6-1.

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with an six-round decision over Michal Dufek in a lightweight fight.

Hatton, 137.4 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 8-0.  Dufek, 136.1 lbs of Prague, CZE is 34-24-2.

Hopey Price remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Alexander Mejia in a featherweight fight.

Price, 125.25 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 80-72 score and is now 8-0. Mejia, 124.25 lbs of Managua, NIC is 18-4.

Aqib Fiaz won a six-round decision over Jordan Ellison in a lightweight bout.

Fiaz, 137.2 lbs of Oldham, ENG won by a 59-55 score and is now 9-0.

Nico Leivars and Angel Gabriel Chavez fought to a no-contest after Chavez could not continue due to a cut over his left eye in the second round of their six-round bantamweight fight.

In round two, Chavez was cut over his left eye from a headbutt.

Leivars, 123.1 lbs of Mansfield, ENG is 2-0. Chavez, 121.25 lbs of Barcelona, SPA is 3-3.

Junaid Bostan stopped Jose Manuel Lopez Clavero in the sixth and final round of their super welterweight contest.

In round six, Bostan dropped a bloodies Clavero with a straight left on the ropes and the bout was stopped at 1:33.

Bostan, 155.4 lbs Rotherham, ENG is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Clavero, 155.2 lbs of Granada, SPA is 16-18-1.

Kieron Conway tuned up for a Las Vegas showdown with Austin Williams with a fifth round stoppage over Gregory Trenol un a scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

Conway dominated the action and landed a hard flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:22 of round five.

Conway, 167.4 lbs of Northampton, ENG is now 18-2-1 with four knockouts. Tremol, 166.6 lbs of Dainville, FRA is 16-9-2.

Conway and Williams will meet on September 17th as part of the Canelo Alvarez – Gennadiy Golovkin 3 undercard.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Good afternoon everyone and welcome to Sheffield. It’s brilliant to be back in the Steel City ahead of a huge night of boxing this Saturday at the Sheffield Arena. The NXTGEN are here in Sheffield, the future stars of the sport. Three big championship fights at the top of the bill but so much young talent here too. The reason these cards are so exciting is because this is the future of British boxing. All of these young guys and girls looking to move to the next level. This weekend headlined by, who I believe is one of the best young stars not just in British boxing but in world boxing, Dalton Smith. An all-Sheffield clash for the British Light-Welterweight championship live and exclusive on DAZN around the world.”

Dalton Smith:

“There are no easy fights in this stage of your career in boxing. I’m overwhelmed with the support and how it’s sold. It’s going to be electric on Saturday night. When you look at the people I’ve boxed I’ve not boxed no gimmes. Since Fight Camp every single fight has been a real contender. At the end of the day it’s just me and Sam in there. I’ve got that experience behind me and on Saturday night this is going to be like the homecoming for Dalton Smith. This is what is going to boost my career to the next level. I’ve been a young fighter coming up watching the past British greats. Friday Fight Night the British Title used to be the main event. That’s the journey I’ve seen – British, Commonwealth, European and so on. I want to look back on my career when I’ve won all of those traditional belts. You could say that there’s easier routes for me to take. I could go down the international route, but I want to do it the proper way. I look at the division I’m in and I’m in probably one of the toughest divisions in boxing right now. I want to do it right. I’m confident in my abilities and I know where I can go. The British is one belt I’m picking up along the way. You’ve seen how Sheffield Wednesday have got behind me. That’s not been forced, that’s because they’ve wanted to do it. They’ve showed the love and support. Not only the football club, the who of Sheffield are getting behind me now. The ticket sales show that. 5,000 are going to be in there. The atmosphere is going to be hostile. This is what we dream of and I can’t wait to be stood on that podium soaking it all up. This is why we work so hard, for nights like this. There’s no pressure on me because I’ve wanted these nights since I was 5.”

Sam O’maison:

“I’ve been at it for a long time. I’ve always been in the background and in the shadows. If I’m honest I’ve not had it the best at all. I’ve always had to be away in people’s hometowns and travelling to Spain and places like that when opportunities have come up. I’m not one of those to shy away from opportunities. If any opportunity comes up, I’m taking it. I’m not in the game to pick and choose. It’s a British Title fight. I didn’t even ask who it was against, I was just saw it and asked when and where. A lot of people don’t know this, I was at the Ingle Gym for 12 years and then I went to Grant Smith’s gym for around two weeks. I was training with a guy called Ian Grant who was there. I’m at a stage in my career now where this has come along and everything is perfect. I’m here for a reason, I’m not here by chance. I’m excited. I’m a fan of this fight myself. I’d love to sit and watch it. I can’t wait and I’m looking forward to it. I think it’s going to be one of those cracking fights that could go down in history.

Sandy Ryan:

“I want to thank you (Eddie Hearn) for making this rematch because I wouldn’t have wanted any other fight. I’m just so ready to put things right on Saturday. My previous fights, you’ll see that wasn’t me. Saturday night, this is the real Sandy Ryan. The years I had on Team GB were fun. You’re going out competing and it’s for fun really. You turn pro and it’s a business. I realised that early on in my career. Now I’ve learnt how to deal with it, and it’s put me in a great position right now ahead of Saturday. Me and Clifton Mitchell (trainer) have prepared for either way because we know what she brings to the table. You’re going to see how much that I’ve respected her as a fighter because of how hard I’ve trained and the shape I’ve got in.”

Erica Farias:

“Thank you very much for the invitation Eddie, much appreciated. Hello to everybody, I’m delighted to be back here in England. It’s going to be a big return obviously having this rematch was essential, it had to be the case after the March showdown. Unfortunately, in that head to head the referee deducted a point from me in the final round which skewed the result. In my opinion it was a straight forward win, not a split decision. I’m very glad to be back here now competing for this title and I hope I’m going to put on a big performance for everybody and take this title back to Argentina.”

Jordan Thompson:

“This guy brings a genuine threat. He’s tough, he’s durable and he’s game. Other guys have come to see how long they can survive. I think and hope, he’s come to see if he can win. I think that’s just going to bring the best out of me. It’s going to give me an opportunity to really showcase what I am truly about. I can’t wait to go out there and show the people that, and show the people that have shown the love and support really what Jordan Troublesome Thompson is about. It’s always about the win but I do have that added pressure on myself. I do want to go out there and look special. We’re in the entertainment business at the end of the day. I do have to be mindful that I can’t go out there and force it. But at the same time if the opportunity does come, I’ll be taking it with both hands. The Cruiserweight division is thriving right now. There’s fights left, right and centre. There’s some great talent and some great strength and depth. But I’ve got one focus and that’s this man across the stage from me.”

Vasil Ducar:

“I am happy to be here. The boxing is my imagination. I want to make a good fight. When I jump in the ring, I see only my opponent. I want to show for everybody a good fight. Maybe not against Chris Billam-Smith or in the last fight but one day there is a big victory for me coming and maybe that will be Saturday – I hope so. Every day I stay on my road and go step by step. I’m still waiting for that.”

Campbell Hatton:

“It is a step up and I think it’s going to bring the best out of me to be honest. He’s coming in with a winning record so he’s going to have that ambition about him. I think when you’re fighting the sort of journeyman type fighters, they don’t offer much aggressively. It’s hard to get your work off and look good against them. Whereas this guy is coming to win and he’s going to leave openings. That’s going to work in my favour. I’ve got all of the ingredients you need to make it as a top fighter but the one area I’m lacking is the experience. The only way to improve that is by being active. Hopefully if we can finish the years in double figures nice and busy that would be perfect.”

Johnny Fisher:

“It’s been a great year, my first year five fights in. I’m looking forward to getting started now in Sheffield. The injury was frustrating but it gave me time to reflect and see how far I’ve come. I think back two years ago from this time now, I was just finishing university and wasn’t sure what I was going to do. Now I’m here five fights in, this is my sixth fight and I’m progressing all of the time with my training team and my managers. I just want to keep doing that. I’m among all of these great fighters here and I’m really proud to be among this great crop of talent as well. I’ve had some great experiences for this camp. I’ve sparred a lot with Derek Chisora. I’ve had loads of people with great advice around me as well. One of them people being Michael Watson who give me a lot of advice in The Origin Gym. I’m enjoying every minute of this journey.”

Hopey Price:

“It was a bit frustrating last time. I believe I had a god performance in Alexandra Palace. I was scheduled for a title fight in my hometown of Leeds, but I had a bit of an injury. I’ve worked hard and I’m fully recovered now. I’m going to put on another special performance come Saturday night, and I’m going to show all of the other Super-Bantamweights out there that I’m here and I’m ready to contest for these titles. I look at Dalton Smith boxing for the British Title in his hometown, I believe I’m not too far away. In a few fights time we can pack out Leeds Arena boxing for that British Title. I look past no opponent. I’ve got a tough fight scheduled on Saturday night but I’m going to do the job and I’m going to do it in style.”

Kieron Conway:

“I’m here fully focused on Saturday. There are no pushovers in pro boxing. The guy is coming here to win. He’s coming here to make the upset. I’m going to be fully on my game. I’m not going to overlook him and look at Austin Williams. I’ve been training for this date and I’m fighting on Saturday. I can’t wait, it’s massive (fighting on the Canelo vs. Golovkin 3 undercard). Being out there for the couple of days last year on the Canelo-Saunders card opened my eyes to the big stage. I want that. I want to be there again. I’m going there to smash him. I’m going there to win. I’m going to shut everyone up, I’m going to shut him up. I don’t know why people are turning down these sorts of fights. I think Austin Williams is a bit of a hype job. I don’t think he lives up to his hype. I also think that maybe I’m a little bit underestimated. What right have I got to turn down these fights? I didn’t come from anywhere; I didn’t do anything in the amateurs really. I’ve got to make my way the hard way.”

Aqib Fiaz:

“It was a difficult year last year, but I believe what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. I’m back here and I want to say thank you to you Eddie and Matchroom for having me back. Thank you to all of my loyal fans and my sponsors, I’m here to make you all proud. Let’s get these couple of fights out of the way, let’s get active and then we’ll get some belts in 2023.”

Junaid Bostan:

“I’m a hidden talent but hopefully after Saturday I won’t be. I’m delighted to be here so thank you Eddie. I always knew that I’d be boxing at the arena at one point, soon I’ll be headlining. Right now it’s Dalton’s turn. Over the years obviously the gym is around the corner from the arena and I’ve always gone past it at the bus stop. I always thought I’d box there one day. Here I am. Over the years I’ve watched Kell, Barry and Naseem fights on Youtube in the arena. Me and Dalton have always spoken about it and here I am. I’m going to make the most of it. I’ve got a decent opponent in a six rounder in my second fight. I’m going to put on a very good performance.”

Nico Leivars:

“Thanks for having me back on. It’s a great opportunity to fight on another Matchroom card. I’m just looking to continue the progress and the learning in my career. I want to keep nice and active and take good opponents. This will be my second six rounder so we’re making nice progress.” 

Joe Cordina thrilled his hometown fans by violently knocking out Kenichi Ogawa in round two to win the IBF Junior Lightweight title at The Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales.

In Round two, Cordina landed a perfect right to the jaw that splattered Ogawa on the canvas, and the fight was stopped.

Cordina, 129.6 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is now 15-0 with nine knockouts. Ogawa, 129.4 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is now 26-2-1.

Barrett Decisions Kourbanov

Zelfa Barrett won a 12-round unanimous decision over Faroukh Kourbanov in a junior lightweight bout.

Barrett Mancherster, ENG is 28-1. Kourbanov of Dison, BEL is 19-4.

Dalton Smith stops Perouene after six

Dalton Smith remained undefeated by stopping Mauro Peroune after round six of their 10-round super lightweight fight.

In round six, Smith dropped Perouene with a right hand. After round six, the fight was stopped.

Smith, 138.5 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Perouene, 139.4 lns of Santa Rosa, ARG is 14-6-1.

Nicolson Decisions Bouvier

Skye Nicolson remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Gabriela Bouvier in a featherweight fight.

Nicolson, 127.3 lbs of Queensland, Australia won by an 80-72 score is now 4-0. Bouvier, 127.2 lbs of Maldonado, URA is 15-11-1.

Yafai Stops Cairns in 4

Gamal Yafai stopped Sean Cairns in round four of their eight-round super bantamweight fight.

In round four, Yafai dropped Cairns with a hard left hook to the jaw and the bout was stopped at 1:55.

Yafai, 124 lbs of Birmingham, ENG is 19-2 with 11 knockouts. Cairns 124.3 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 8-3.

Callum French won an eight-round decision over Gadatamen Taylor in a super lightweight contest.

French, 137.25 lbs of Gateshead, ENG won by a 79-73 score and is now 3-0. Taylor, 137.5 lbs of Palma de Mallorco, SPA is 4-10-1.

Kyran Jones remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Vasif Mamedov in a middleweight fight.

In round two, Jones dropped Mamedov with a straight left.

Jones, 163.5 lbs of Hengoad, WAL won by a 40-35 score and is now 4-0. Mamedov., 164.1 lbs of Perm, RUS is 2-18-3.

Joe Morgan remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Rustem Fatkhullin in a super lightweight bout.

Morgan, 143.4 lbs of Aberdare, WAL won by a 40-35 score and is now 4-0. Fatkhullin, 144.2 lbs of UFA, RUS is 8-33.

Ben Crocker remained undefeated with a dour-round decision over Evgeni Vazem in a welterweight fight.

Cocker, 149.5 lbs of Swansea, WAL won by a 40-36 score and is now 4-0. Vazem, 151.6 lbs of Serov, RUS is 9-30

Ester Konecna spoiled the pro debut of Monique Bux by winning a four-round decision in a super middleweight bout.

Konecna, 160.3 lbs of Ostrava, CZE won by a 39-37 score and is now 2-15-1. Bux, 167.1 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 0-1.

Josh Warrington became a two-time featherweight world champion as he won the IBF title with a seventh round stoppage over Kiko Martinez in front of a raucous sell out crowd at The First District Arena in Leeds, England.

Warrington almost made it a real early night as he was all over Martinez and dropped him with a hard right hand. Warrington battered and bloodied the left eye of Martinez. Warrington dominated the rest of the fight with the exception of a couple hard rights that were landed by Martinez.

One of the rights may have set Warrington off as he stormed back and beat up Martinez on the ropes until the bout was stopped at 2:12 of round seven.

Warrington, who decisioned Martinez five years ago is now a two-time champion by thrilling his hometown fans and has a record of 31-1-1 with eight knockouts, Martinez of Spain is 43-11-2.

Bridges wins IBF Bantamweight Title from Roman

Ebanie Bridges won the IBF Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Cecilia Roman.

Bridges out worked and outhustled Roman on the inside and landed some good punches to the body. Bridges was effective with her uppercut and took the lead from the outset.

Bridges landed 205 of 645 punches; Roman was 156 of 430.

Bridges, 117.3 lbs of New South Wales, AUS won by scores of 100-91 and 97-93 twice and is now 8-1. Roman, 116.4 lbs of San Juan, ARG was a five year-champion, who had made seven defenses is now 16-6-1.

“I am feeling proud of myself and everything that I sacrificed has been worth it. This belt means all of the sacrifice and training. I was so happy for that kind of fight. I hope the fight was entreating. Cecilia brough the fight. I am grateful to win the title in this great city of Leeds,” said Bridges,

Hughes decisions Walsh

Maxi Hughes won a 12-round unanimous decision over Ryan Walsh in a lightweight contest.

In round three, Walsh was cut over left uppercut that was ruled from a punch.

Hughes landed 163 of 610 punches; Walsh was 79 of 614.

Hughes, 133.5 lbs of Rossington, ENG won by scores of 120-108, 119-109 and 118-110 and is now 25-5-2. Walsh, 134.4 lbs of Cromer, ENG is 23-4-2.

Smith Stops Moylette in 10

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with a 10th round stoppage over Roy Moylette in a junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Moylette started to swell under his left eye.

In round seven, Smith was deducted two points for a low blow.

In round 10, Smith landed a hard left that sent Moylette to the canvas. Seconds later, it was another left hook that sent Moylette down again and the fight was stopped at 49 seconds.

Smith, 139.25 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is now 10-0 with eight knockouts. Moylette, 139.2 lbs of Islandeady, ENG is 12-2.

Nicholson Decisions Connolly

2021 Australian Olympian Skye Nicholson remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Bec Connolly in a featherweight bout.

In round five, Connolly began to bleed from her nose.

Connolly, 127.2 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by a 60-54 score and is now 2-0. Connolly, 127 lbs of Swindon, ENG is 3-12.

Cory O’Regan won a six-round decision over Jakub Laskowski in a lightweight bout.

O’Regan, 137.4 lbs of Heckmondwike, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Laskowski, 137.3 lbs of Siemianowice, POL is 4-14-1,

Mali Wright won a four-round decision over Luis Palmer in a light heavyweight bout.

Wright, 186.25 lbs of Leeds, UK won by a 39-38 scores and is now 2-0-1. Palmer, 186 lbs of Huddersfield, ENG is 0-1-1.

Callum French stopped Angelo Turco in round three of their six-round super lightweight bout.

French dominated the action and hurt Turco several ties before the fight was stopped just as the towel came in at 1:11,

French, 137.5 lbs of Gateshead, ENG is 2-0 with one knockout. Turco, 140.1 lbs of Quaragnon, BEL is 8-24-2.

Heavyweight Filip Hrgovic dominated and stopped Mark Radonjic in round three of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout in Austria.

Hrgovic dropped Radojic four-times in round two and once again in round three, and the bout was stopped.

Hrgovic of Croatia is now 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Radonjic of Montenegro is 22-1.

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with 10-round unanimous decision over Brian Pelaez in a junior welterweight bout.

Smith of England wo by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 9-0. Pelaez of Madrid, SPA is 10-6.

Abass Baraou stopped Jay Harris in the opening round of their eight-round super welterweight fight.

Baraou landed two hard rights that froze Harris and the fight was stopped at 2:43.

Baraou of Berlin, Germany is 10-1 with seven knockouts. Harris of Dusseldorf, GER is 11-3.

Former belt holder, John Ryder stopped Jozef Jurrko in a scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout

In round four, Jurko began to bleed from his nose. In round five, Ryder continued to pound away at an overmatched Jurko and the fight was stopped at 1:29.

Ryder of England is now 30-5 with 17 knockouts. Jurko of Slovenia is 7-3.

John Hedges remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Frane Radnic.

Hedges won by a 60-54 score and is 3-0.

One of the brightest prospects in world boxing Dalton Smith has signed a new five-fight deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing. 

Sheffield’s most successful amateur boxer of all time has carried his electric form into the professional ranks, winning all but one of his eight contests inside the distance. 

‘Thunder’ claimed his first pro title last time out at Manchester Arena in May – dominating Lee Appleyard and forcing a punishing sixth-round stoppage to earn the vacant English Title.

Trained by his father Grant at the Steel City Gym and managed by STN Sports, 24-year-old Smith is hungry for more titles and believes he is in the perfect place achieve all of his goals with Matchroom. 

“I am delighted to make it three deals in only eight fights with Matchroom,” said Smith. “Alongside STN Sports, who have been outstanding managing my career, I have the team in place that will give me the opportunity to achieve all my dreams.

“I want to bring World Championship boxing to Hillsborough and this next five-fight roadmap feels like a big step towards that. Fans can expect to see me next year in tougher domestic challenges, competing for more titles and headlining in Sheffield.”

“I’m delighted to extend our promotional deal with Dalton Smith who I believe is a World Champ in the waiting,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Dalton has been faultless so far as a professional and I look forward to building him in Sheffield but also seeing him fight all over the world as we move forward as a team to the top of the 140lbs division.”

Joshua Buatsi stopped Daniel Dos Santos in round four of their scheduled 10-round light heavyweight at The Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

In round four, Buatsi landed a devastating overhand right to the face of Dos Santos, who like a ton of bricks, and the fight was over at 2:44.

Buatsi, 174 lbs of Croydon, ENG is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. Dos Santos, 174.1 lbs of Point-Sainte-Maxence, FRA is 15-1.

“I hope he’s okay,” Buatsi told Matchroom. “We’ve seen this happen to many fighters. You box someone they say you’re levels above and it’s a banana skin situation. I’m glad I handled it. The most important thing is I hope he’s okay. We’ve seen these type of fighters come and cause upsets recently and I was adamant it wasn’t going to happen to me. I’m glad it went well.

“I remain optimistic all of the time in the moves that I make and this is one of them. We will have a week or so off and then we’re back in the gym to keep building. Going in we had little footage of him. Usually you can watch who you’re going to fight to get a feel. He looked very good in the one bit of footage we had of him. I had to learn round by round what he was like.

“Virgil gave me the perfect instructions and I followed them. I haven’t got here by being given it. The little that I’ve earnt, I had to work hard for it. I thank god for everything that we’ve got but I work hard for it. When I step in that ring it’s a dog mentality. This is a fight. I’m here to take everything. We’re here to win but we’re not here to hurt anyone. The time that we’re in the ring, yes, we want to win, and we want to entertain. We’re not here to hurt anyone in the long-term.”

Richards Decisons De Carolis

Lerrone Richards won an easy 12-round unanimous decision over Giovanni De Caolins in a super middleweight.

Richards, 167 lbs of New Malden, ENG won by scores of 120-108 twice and 119-109, and is now 15-0. De Carolis, 167.4 lbs of Vitebo, ITA is 28-10-1.

“I said I was going to conquer Europe, and I’ve done it,” Richards told Matchroom. “I’m very pleased and I’m very happy. I wanted this so bad to complete the collection. British, Commonwealth and now the European Super-Middleweight Champion. I’m very happy.

“It’s all of the drilling and all of the work in the gym. I’d like to thank my team – Dave Coldwell, Danny Wilson and my nutritionist Lee for getting me in the best shape possible for this fight. I’m going to be very difficult to beat. I said this from the start. It’s all about the skills, and I have them in abundance. I showcased a little bit of that tonight.

“There were points in the fight where I decided to sit in the pocket and work with him. I could have gone up the gears a little bit more tonight. I felt like what I was doing was enough. My team are very happy with my performance.

“I started from the bottom and worked my way up – I backed myself. There’s something to learn at every level. We’ll see what the team says the best options are for me. The next step now is fringe world level.”

Jason Cunningham dropped Gamal Yafai three-times en-route to a 12-round unanimous decision in a super bantamweight bout.

In round two, Cinningham dropped Yafai with a straight left. In round four, Cunningham dropped Yafai with a counter left. In round six, Cunningham dropped Yafai.

Yafai rallied down the stretch and hurt Cunningham down the stretch, but it was too little-too late as Cunningham won by scores of 115-110 and 114-111 twice.

Cunningham, 121.8 lbs of Doncaster, ENG is 29-6. Yafai, 121. lbs of Birmingham, ENG is 18-2.

Cunningham avenged a loss to Gamal’s brother Khalid.

“We’re buzzing,” said Cunningham. “We’re from a little town called Doncaster. We’ve got a British, European and World Champion – that’s some doing that. In at three weeks’ notice – I won my second Commonwealth Title at three weeks’ notice. They tried catching me out tonight, I don’t care what anyone says – that’s what they’ve done. 

“I’ve stayed prepared, stayed disciplined and dedicated. This is what happens when you stick to it. I was in this venue last time I had a big fight against Michael Conlan. I pushed Michael Conlan hard. I had to grit in late on tonight – he hurt me a few times to the body. I’ll never quit. It’s my boxing ability that sets me above the rest. I’m an awkward tall southpaw.

“I said I knew I had the tools to do it. I said I’d have done a better job if I had more notice but to be fair, I dropped him three times and it was quite comfortable really. I knew to keep calm and carry on what I was doing. I stuck to it and this is my reward. I made a lot of people in Doncaster a lot of money tonight.

“I showed my class, I was levels above him in terms of boxing ability. Usually you get a good ten weeks’ notice for a European Title fight – it was the biggest fight of my life. I’ve been out of the ring since February last year. Tonight was just my night, I knew I was all wrong for him.”

Tommy McCarthy stopped Alezandru Jur in round six of a scheduled 12-round cruiserweight bout,

In round four, McCarthy dropped Jur with a left to the body. Two rounds later, it was another left to the body, but this time Jur was down for the count of 10 at 2:09.

McCarthy, 199.4 lbs of Belfast, NI is 18-2 with nine knockouts. Jur, 198.7 lbs of Ordea, ROM is 19-5.

“I’m delighted,” McCarthy told Matchroom. “I got a few rounds in and a stoppage. I got everything that I wanted. We prepared for Jur to give me a good test. I don’t think he expected me to come out the way that I did. It threw him off a bit. I can’t complain.

“I thought it was all over after the first knockdown. Feinted to the head, left hook to the body and he went over. He went into survival mode after that. It was the same again with the next one. I’ve been working hard with my team all through camp. We’ve been doing all sorts of drills. We’ve been working on being explosive. The S and C training was all focused on me being explosive. I’m a hard puncher.

“Everything was perfect this camp – no injuries. I was driving them shots through him, it was great. The pandemic has been great for me, I’ve kept my head down, stayed in the gym and worked on my whole game. I hope everybody is buzzing back home in Belfast.

“I’ve got no problem fighting Chris Billam-Smith, it’s easy work. If this is the hurdle that I have to jump over for a World Title fight, then so be it. Chris Billam-Smith, stop Tweeting about me, stop talking about me – we’ll see you at Fight Camp.”

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with a beatdown sixth round stoppage over Lee Appleyard in a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Smith dominated throughout until the fight was stopped at 2:44

Smith, 139.9 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Aplleyard, 139.1 lbs of Rotherham, ENG is 16-6-1.

“I’ve got my first professional Title,” said Smith. “I’ve dreamt about this since I was a little boy. I’m English Champion! It’s the starting block for me. When the fight first got announced, I thought, ‘it’s just an English Title’, but now I’ve got it it’s like, ‘wow, I’m a professional Champion now’. It feels good.

“All credit to Lee – he’s one tough kid. I was prepared for a fast-paced ten rounds tonight, but he was just taking a few too many shots in there. I’m good friends with Lee out of the ring. When you go in there it’s just business. I could see his face was getting bust up pretty bad. I kind of felt sorry for him in a way. I’ve got respect for him. I knew eventually the shots would come and I knew he wasn’t going to last long.

“I’m happy with my performance. You want to win in style. The knockouts are good. We want to win but we don’t want anyone to come out of there hurt. People forget that was my eighth pro fight there. Lee is an experienced guy and he’s been in with some top kids. He’s been those championship rounds.

“I’m taking my time, I’m 24. I’ve got one shot at boxing; I want to make sure that I do it right. I’m not in there with no mugs – they’re real contenders. That was a good step up and I proved what I’m about. I’m not a championship round fighter yet. Kay Prosper just boxed for the European Title – they’re the type of fights that I want. I want to get those championship rounds in, I’m in a tough division. Maybe I’ll get over to the States in my next fight, get a bit of experience over there. I’d love to do that.”

Solomon Dacres made a successful pro debut with an easy six-round unanimous decision over Mladen Manev in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 221.1 lbs of Birmingham, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is 1-0. Manev, 233 lbs of Sofia BUL is 3-9.

“It was good to get six rounds under my belt,” Dacres told Matchroom. “I know a lot of people like to get the big Heavyweights that get them out of there in one round, but you don’t learn much from that. I got to show my skills. I didn’t just go for all power. I’ve got plenty more in the tank, so it was good to get the rounds in.

“I showed my hand speed at times. I showed I can box. I didn’t rush it. I’ve varied the power up. It’s all building up. We’re training to be a twelve-round fighter, not just a one or two round knockout artist. You don’t gain much from getting someone that is going to fall over after a round. Six tough rounds, I got to go through the gears, show a bit of what I’m about and learn a little bit as well.

“I was pretty relaxed to be honest. I’ve had plenty of amateur fights. I know that I prepared very hard. It felt good to get in there. Hard work is at the route of it all. If you put that hard work and dedication in, the sky is the limit. I’ll keep putting my head down in the gym and performing in the ring.”

Fast-rising Super-Lightweight sensation Dalton Smith says he carries the power to knockout local rival Lee Appleyard when they clash for the vacant English Title at the AO Arena, Manchester this Saturday May 15, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the US and more than 200 countries and territories.

‘Thunder’ has finished six of his seven professional contests inside the distance, and the 24-year-old former Team GB star kept his six-fight KO streak running last time out when he retired Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis in three rounds on the Josh Warrington vs. Mauricio Lara undercard. 

Smith, Sheffield’s most successful amateur boxer of all time, was originally scheduled to face Rotherham’s Appleyard in February before the Stefy Bull-trained 33-year-old was forced to withdraw after contracting COVID-19 a week out from the fight – but Smith believes now is the perfect time to take on the former English Champion.

“In my eighth fight, to be boxing for the English Title is great,” said Smith. “The belt has been around for so many years and when you look at the people that have won it – some have gone on to become greats. They all started off with the English Title. That’s the route I want to go down – English, British and European. I want to go the traditional route and pick up all of those belts along the way. 

“Lee Appleyard is a local derby and it’s the perfect matchup to have for the English Title. Each fight for me is a steppingstone. The English Title is not my end goal; it’s the start. The amateur days and the golds are in the past now; I’ve achieved those goals and now I’ve got new goals that I’ve set out. I work hard every single day because I want to achieve those goals. I’ll be happy when one day I can bring a World Title back to Sheffield.

“Take nothing away from Lee, he’s a very good fighter and he’s experienced. He’s got a very good engine. I think that’s what he’s going to be relying on in this fight. Just having a good engine isn’t enough. I’m maturing and I’m punching harder. I’ve always been able to carry power but now I feel like a different animal. I think it’s a perfect fight for me. 

“I think I can knock him out. We’ve both sparred, and we both know how those spars went. Don’t get me wrong, Lee is tough and he’s strong. He’s going to try and take me into the deep waters in those later rounds. No disrespect to Lee, I think he’s a great fighter in and out of the ring, but I feel confident that I can get him out of there. 

“The Nathan Bennett fight – top fighter. I had no footage on him whatsoever so when I was training, I didn’t really know what style I was preparing for. I went in there and showed whatever they bring to the table, I can adapt. It only took me a few rounds to get his number. I’ve sparred Lee, we’ve had lots of rounds together. I’ve been to shows where I’ve seen him fight live. I know a lot about Lee. If I can work somebody out without any footage, once I’ve got their blueprint it can be dangerous.”

Smith vs. Appleyard is part of a huge night of boxing in Manchester, Joshua Buatsi (13-0, 11 KOs) fights under Virgil Hunter for the first time against unbeaten Frenchman Daniel Blenda Dos Santos (15-0, 8 KOs), three European Title fights feature on the bill with Gamal Yafai (18-1, 10 KOs) defending his Super-Bantamweight Title for the first time against Jason Cunningham (28-6, 6 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (17-2, 18 KOs) defending his Cruiserweight crown against Romania’s Alexandru Jur (19-4, 7 KOs) and Lerrone Richards (14-0, 3 KOs) taking on Italy’s Giovanni De Carolis (28-9-1, 13 KOs) for the vacant Super-Middleweight strap, Birmingham Heavyweight Solomon Dacres makes his professional debut and Ellis Hopkins makes history when she becomes the first female from the traveller community to turn professional.

Eddie Hearn:

“Thanks Chris, Darren and Andy, joining us live on Sky Sports as well. We are so happy to be back! 2021 here we go. We’re back behind closed doors but it doesn’t matter. This is the biggest year yet for Matchroom Boxing as we go global. The start of twelve shows in eight weeks, in seven different countries. Firstly, this Saturday live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN around the world. The return of the No.1 Featherweight Josh Warrington against Mauricio Lara. Kiko Martinez against Zelfa Barrett, Reece Mould against Leigh Wood, Dalton Smith against Ishmael Ellis, Hopey Price against Mendoza and this one to kick us off, Ibrahim Nadim against Jonny Phillips.”

Josh Warrington – Leeds, England – 30-0, 7 KOs – fighting Mauricio Lara in a 12 round Featherweight contest:

“He’s got a better knockout ratio than I have. But can he do the 12 rounds as well as I can? Has he got as much experience? I don’t think he can. But that’s up to me to expose that. He’s got punch power but, if I’m not there to be hit, he’ll be hitting thin air. It won’t go past six rounds. I strongly believe that. The way I’ve been hitting with 16oz gloves on? When I then put the 8oz gloves on and see the gaps in his defence, I expect an early night. But I’m experienced over 12 rounds. I’ve done marathons. I can do it at a good pace. This man here has no pressure. He is full of Mexican pride. I’m a big fan of Mexican fighters and how they wear their hearts on their sleeves. He will bring it but I wouldn’t want it any other way. This guy is a real puncher. He will bring it, which will tune me up nicely for the fights down the line. Make no mistake, I’m treating him like a monster because I can’t afford a slip-up.”

Mauricio Lara – Mexico City, Mexico – 21-2, 14 KOs – fighting Josh Warrington in a 12 round Featherweight contest:

“Thank you very much. Thanks for the invitation. It’s a lovely country that you’ve got here despite the fact that we haven’t been able to go out at all. It is a great opportunity for me and Josh Warrington is going to face a really tricky fighter in me. I’m also aware that I’m coming up agains the No.1 ranked fighter and it’s my opportunity to show the people of Mexico and everyone what I can do. I enjoy coming for war. We’re going to clash in the ring, that’s definitely going to happen. I’m looking forward to it. From the first bell I will be looking for the knockout. If it goes the distance I’ll be ready. I’ll be ready for whatever comes. I’d love to make history on February 13th, to take this victory home to Mexico City. It is a huge opportunity and I’m really looking forward to taking advantage of it.”

Zelfa Barrett – Manchester, England – 24-1, 15 KOs – defending his IBF Intercontinental Super-Featherweight Title against Kiko Martinez:

“I’m ready. I’m more than ready. I respect Kiko for what he’s done in the sport. He’s fought the best. I believe that I’m one of the best. It’s my time to shine and to show how good I am. Styles make fights. When I fight another guy like Eric Donovan, slick and tricky, I’ll learn from that. Kiko is coming, I know he’s coming, I can see him coming now! We’re ready for what he’s going to bring. Fight Camp was a good experience and Eric Donovan was a good fighter. I’m ready for anything. However he comes out I’ll just work on that. I’ll do what I’ve got to do. I know what he’s coming to do. He’s coming to fight. He’s coming for war. We’re ready. I know what I want and I know where we’re going. Kiko is a good fighter and beating him will put me in a good position.”

Kiko Martinez – Alicante, Spain – 41-9-2, 29 KOs – challenging Zelfa Barrett for his IBF Intercontinental Super-Featherweight Title:

“It’s great to be here. Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to be here again. It is true, we’ve had some great nights in the past. This is a huge fight for me, and the opportunity for me to make history, to be one of the few people that have won Titles in three different weight classes. I’m very excited and prepared to face a really good fighter in Barrett on Saturday. It’s to make history, to make history in the ring. I’ve never been content with money alone, the only thing that makes me happy is being active as a fighter. It’s about doing all that I can, and giving my all every time that I step into the ring. I’m super prepared. Extremely prepared.”

Leigh Wood – Nottingham, England – 23-2, 13 KOs – fighting Reece Mould for the vacant British Featherweight Title:

“I’m extremely confident of winning that British Title on Saturday night. New trainer, not so much new things. Obviously there’s only so many punches in boxing that you can learn. The perception of it, how you look at it, how you view it, how you set things up, keeping my base, just fundamentals. Drilling it and drilling it thousands of times. I’m really feeling confident ahead of Saturday night. I’ve said a few things that he’s taken as disrespectful. I’m not disrespecting him. I rate him, he’s a good fighter, 13-0, in and out of a gym with a World Champion. I’ve heard a lot of sparring rumours as well. I just believe that anyone I’m in with on Saturday night, I’m coming away with the win. I spent most of my career on my back foot. Dancing around, switching and moving. It’s one way of boxing but with my power, Ben was scratching his head at why I wasn’t using it. We’ve changed things in sparring and it’s coming together. Everyone that has ever taken me on the pads can vouch for me that I’m a big puncher. There’s more to boxing than punching. You’ve got to set it up. You’ve got to be smart. That’s what we’ve been working on.”

Reece Mould – Doncaster, England – 13-0, 6 KOs – fighting Leigh Wood for the vacant British Featherweight Title:

“Boxing is all about timing and I believe this is the right time for this fight. I’m going to win this fight and go onto bigger things. I’m looking forward to it. I’m not expecting an easy night. I’ve said all along that it’s not going to be an easy fight. If Leigh comes to bring it and trade with me then I believe I’ll get him out of there early. We’re going to push him all the way. I’m expecting Leigh to bring his best. He’s got everything on his shoulders for this fight. He’s got to win the fight so he’s going to bring his best, but I believe my best beats Leigh Wood’s best.”

Dalton Smith – Sheffield, England – 6-0, 5 KOs – fighting Ishmael Ellis in an ten round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’d have like to have got out before the end of last year but I got COVID-19 so we had to take our time. I’m happy that I’m back out on the first card of the year. This isn’t the fight that we originally had scheduled in but again, we can’t argue with that, it’s nobody’s fault. Now I’m facing Ishmael Ellis who is a lively opponent. I didn’t want anyone to step in as just a knock-over. We managed to get a lively opponent and we’ve got a good fight on Saturday. These guys facing me have got everything to gain and nothing to lose. For me, mainly I’ve got everything to lose. There’s a lot of pressure in these fights but this is the game we’re in. I want to keep on propelling my career further and further up. I’ve got to take these challenges. I think the better my opposition gets the better you’ll see of me.”

Ishmael Ellis – Birmingham, England – 11-3 – fighting Dalton Smith in an ten round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m 100% here to win this weekend. Thank you for the opportunity again. Thank you Dalton as well. It’s a massive opportunity for me. A lot of fighters have been turning these opportunities down but us underdog fighters can’t be turning down these opportunities. I do believe that I can give him a good fight on Saturday night. I took that loss last year. It was my own fault. I wasn’t really prepared for the fight, I was out of training. The opportunity came and I was just eager to fight. I just want to keep on going. I’ve had a bit more time to prepare for this one. I haven’t taken this fight just to go down in the first round and leave. I’ve come here to prove myself and gain something from this.”

Hopey Price – Leeds, England – 3-0, 1 KO – fighting Daniel Mendoza in a six round Featherweight contest:

“We’ve been back and forth with a few different opponents. I’ve just got to concentrate on doing my job on Saturday night. Now I’ve finally got an opponent I can just go out there and do what I’ve been working on in the gym. Obviously we have to move a bit quicker because of the pandemic. Me and Dave feel like I’m ready to move quicker anyway. I think with my ability and my boxing brain I’m ready to do so. These sort of fights are great experience for me for when I do eventually step-up. Having Jonny Phillips as my third fight has helped me improve as a fighter. I think I just need to keep taking these step-ups. That’s what is going to get me to where I need to be in the end.”

Daniel Mendoza – Chichigalpa, Nicaragua – 11-11, 4 KOs – fighting Hopey Price in a six round Featherweight contest:

“I’d like to thank god first and foremost for being here. Thanks also to the promoters. It is true that I really like tough fights and it is going to be another one on Saturday night but I’m really looking forward to it. Whenever I go into the ring it’s not about fighting, it is about winning. I always give my best and I have great heart. I will be doing that in the ring.”

Ibrahim Nadim – Keighley, England – 2-0 – fighting Jonny Phillips in a six round Featherweight contest:

“Firstly I’d like to thank Matchroom and Sky Sports for the opportunity. It’s good to be back boxing again. It’s a tough test but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. It’s been frustrating, but if you look at the positive side of things, it has given me more time to learn in the ring. I’m prepared for whatever he brings. I want to be in exciting fights like this.”

Jonny Phillips – Sandhurst, England – 5-5, 2 KOs – fighting Ibrahim Nadim in a six round Featherweight contest:

“This time you’ve given me four weeks’ notice not four days! I’ve managed to make the weight quite comfortably. I made it at the start of the week. Mentally, we’re all there. Everything is in place now. I felt good in that last one but it was rushed and it was my first time being on Sky. That was hyped up. Now I’m used to it all. I’m buzzing, I cannot wait to get in there. I’m not in this game for money or fame. I want glory. I want to end my career with any belt. Beating him is going to hopefully put me a step closer to you offering me a Title fight.”

Ted Cheeseman won an exciting 12-round unanimous decision over Sam Eggington in a thrilling super welterweight fight at the Matchroom HQ Fight Camp in Essex, England.

In round six, there was blood from the nose of Cheeseman. Cheeseman hurt Eggington several times during the fight, but Eggington stood his ground and fought back.

Cheeseman, 153.4 lbs won by scores of 116-113 twice and 115-114 and is now 16-2-1. Eggington, 153.9 lbs is 28-7.

After the fight an emotional Cheeseman said: “You can’t imagine. I see fighters lose who don’t care. I cared, I cried my eyes out, I stormed out of the ring. I’m a winner, I gave my heart to this sport and I felt that I deserved some luck last year, but I never got it.

“I lot of people doubted me, thought I would tire. When it got tough, I had a fight with Sam. It was morale – I haven’t won for nearly two years – and you need confidence.

“I was confident going into that ring. There was no pressure with no crowd. I made mistakes but I boxed really well. I could have thought: ‘It isn’t going my way’. But I gave it my all. If I lost tonight, I would have retired. I could cry my eyes out with happiness.”

“You just have to roll with the punches,” said Eggington. “Ted got the decision today. Of course I would like the rematch. I’m sure people would like to see it again.”

Former world title challenger James Tennyson stopped Gavin Gwynne in round six of a scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

In round five, Tennyson began to bleed from the nose. In round six, Tennyson dropped Gwynne with a right to the temple. Tennyson followed up with a ferocious flurry that included uppercuts left hooks and rights to the body until the fight was stopped at 2:30.

Tennyson, 134.8 lbs of Belfast, NI is 27-3 with 23 knockouts. Gwynne, 134.4 lbs is 12-2.

“It means everything,” said Tennyson after the fight. “I stuck to the plan. I was told to be patient, move around, stick to my shots.”

Tennyson’s promoter Eddie Hearn said: “Hats off to Gwynne, massive respect. This is what we want at Fight Camp, thrilling fights. Tennyson always has the equaliser – he has dynamite in his hands especially at 135lbs. 

“He is so exciting. I want to see him move faster. He’s done at British level. A great fight would be Patera for the European title. I love the Jorge Linares fight. What an entertainer, what a fighter, non-stop action.”

Fabio Wardley remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Simon Vallily in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Wardley landed a left hook to the head that rocked Vallily across the ring. Wardley was all over Vallily and landed nine unanswered blows, and the bout was stopped at 1:01.

Wardley, 224 lbs of Ipswich is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Vallily, 224 lbs of Middlesbrough is 17-3-1.

“I started boxing just for a bit of a fun,” Wardley told Sky Sports. “I’m massively humbled and grateful. Near on punch perfect, I think I did pretty well. Round three, that was it, it was over.”

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with a emphatic 5th round stoppage over Nathan Bennett in an right-round junior welterweight bout.

Smith Rocked Bennett several times during the fight. In round five, Smith landed a booming right that sent Bennett down and out at 2:56.

Smith, 140.8 of Sheffield is 609 with five knockouts. Bennett, 140 lbs of Liverpool is 9-2.

After the fight Smith said: “I think I boxed to instructions, did what my dad said. He caught me with a shot in the first round – and I knew I had to be switched on.”

Jordan Gill won a 10-round unanimous decision over Reece Bellotti in a featherweight bout.

In round six, Bellotti was cut over his right eye. In round eight, Gill started to swell under his left eye.

Gill, 125.9 lbs of Chatteris won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-95, and is now 25-1. Bellotti, 125.4 lbs of Wattford is 14-4.

“I thought it was a great fight,” said Gill. “All credit to Reece, he came and brought his A-Game. That’s probably the best Reece Bellotti we’ve seen. He’s taken a lot of experience from his losses and put it into a really good performance. I think he can come back and win titles. 

“I expected a better performance from myself, but a win is a win, and I got rid of a lot of demons in there tonight. I boxed to orders, controlling the fight with my left hand.

“I didn’t really let my right hand go. I busted my hand mid-rounds, but no excuses, a great fight, and I’m pleased to come away with the win.”

Dalton Smith,Sheffield’s most successful amateur boxer of all time,only has eyes for the future as he prepares to take the biggest step up in his pro career to date when he fights Liverpool’s Nathan Bennett over eight rounds in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday August 1, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

In a glittering amateur career, Smith established himself as one of the very best fighters in the country, winning medals at the Junior European Championships and youth Commonwealth Games, as well as representing Team GB around the World and taking on the very best amateurs on the planet in the World Series of Boxing.

Since swapping his Team GB vest for the paid ranks with Eddie’s Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing in March 2019, Smith has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in the UK, winning all five of his bouts in impressive fashion and stopping all but one opponent inside the distance.

‘Thunder’s’ successful switch from the amateurs is all the more compelling given he had four operations on his hands before even starting his professional adventure, and the gifted 23-year-old says his hands are feeling stronger than ever as he looks to move 6-0 this weekend. 

“In the amateurs I had a lot of hand injuries towards the back of my career and I’ve got the scars to show for it.” said Smith. “I’ve had two operations on my right hand and I had to have a tendon repaired on my left hand. You can see why I say the gloves and the hand wraps have a big impact in the amateurs on fighter’s hands. I’d be going to tournaments, throwing punches but holding back. 

“It was like a mental thing where I’d had all of that time off with injuries and operations, I just didn’t want to go through all of that again. You just have to overcome that and have trust in yourself. They’ve been fine ever since. Now I’ve turned professional I get the pro wrap, the gloves are shaped better and I’ve not had not any hand trouble whatsoever.”

Trained by his father Grant at the Steel City Gym in Sheffield alongside former WBC Flyweight World Champion Charlie Edwards and his brother Sunny, Smith has settled well into life as a professional fighter and hopes to replicate his outstanding amateur achievements in the pro game. 

“My dad got a trophy cabinet for me to keep all of my medals and trophies together. I used to come back from a tournament and my dad would stack my medals in there. The trophies go back to when I was eleven when I first started competing. It’s nice to look back on my past achievements. It’s something to show your kids when you get older.

“I won National Titles all the way up to the Seniors. Just before I turned professional, I won the Senior ABA’s. I had a good amateur career so it’s nice to see all of my medals and look back on them but I’m in the professional game now and I’ve got new goals to achieve. I’ll have to get a new trophy cabinet now to stick the belts in. The amateurs are passed me now and success in professional game is my new goal.”

Smith vs. Bennett lands on Week 1 of Matchroom Fight Camp, top of the bill sees Sam Eggington (28-6, 17 KOs) put his IBF International Super-Welterweight Title on the line against Ted Cheeseman (15-2-1, 9 KOs), Belfast’s big-hitting James Tennyson (26-3, 22 KOs) takes on Cardiff’s Gavin Gwynne (12-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant British Lightweight Title, fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (8-0, 7 KOs) steps up to take on Middlesbrough’s Simon Vallily (17-2-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant English belt and Chatteris talent Jordan Gill (24-1, 7 KOs) meets Watford’s Reece Bellotti (14-3, 12 KOs) in an electric Featherweight battle.

Nathan Bennett says he is ready to seize a “once in a lifetime” opportunity when he takes on highly-rated Matchroom prospect Dalton Smith this Saturday August 1 on the opening weekend of Fight Camp, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Trained by former professional Light-Middleweight boxer Steve Harkin, Bennett (9-1, 2 KOs) has fought exclusively in his home city of Liverpool since making his professional debut with a 40-36 points win over Lithuania’s Andrej Cepur at the BT Convention Centre in November 2017.

The 27-year-old notched another six wins before suffering his first defeat in the pros against Birmingham’s Ben Fields at the Olympia in October last year. He bounced back from that disappointment with wins over Stu Greener and most recently Michael Mooney. 

Despite having only fought on non-televised small hall shows up until this point, the Steve Wood-managed fighter insists he won’t be overawed when he squares off with Sheffield’s most successful amateur of all time in the unique and breathtaking outdoor setting at Matchroom HQ. 

“It’s an ask but I’m definitely capable of beating him or I wouldn’t have taken the fight,” said Bennett. “I was driving in my car when I got a phone call off my manager Steve Wood and he said ‘what do you reckon on this Dalton Smith?’. I just told him to make the fight. 

“Let’s face it, I wouldn’t have been boxing until next year if it wasn’t for this fight would I. He fought just before lockdown and so did I so we’re both going to be there and we’re both going to be fresh. He fought on the 7^th of March and then I fought on the 14^th of March. 

“I couldn’t get out of bed for some of my earlier opponents because I knew I was going to beat them. That’s the honest truth. It was unprofessional of me but that’s definitely not the case for this fight. These are the fights that get me out of bed.

“I’m not like those fighters that he’s fought and he’s going to find that out the 1^st of August. Weight isn’t going to be an issue for me. I’m six foot so I’ve got the height advantage. I’ll meet him straight in the middle. They’re most probably underestimating my boxing ability. I had 80 fights as an amateur, won two titles and boxed everywhere. It’s going to be a good fight. 

“They’re all 50-50 fights on every show otherwise they wouldn’t have put them on. It’s great exposure for me. I don’t think this will ever happen again. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and it will be watched all around the world. This is my opportunity. This was meant to be for me. There’s no expectations of me but I’ve got expectations of myself.”

Smith vs. Bennett lands on Week 1 of Matchroom Fight Camp, top of the bill sees Sam Eggington (28-6, 17 KOs) put his IBF International Super-Welterweight Title on the line against Ted Cheeseman (15-2-1, 9 KOs), Belfast’s big-hitting James Tennyson (26-3, 22 KOs) takes on Cardiff’s Gavin Gwynne (12-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant British Lightweight Title, fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (8-0, 7 KOs) steps up to take on Middlesbrough’s Simon Vallily (17-2-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant English belt and Chatteris talent Jordan Gill (24-1, 7 KOs) meets Watford’s Reece Bellotti (14-3, 12 KOs) in an electric Featherweight battle.

Dalton Smith will take part in his second professional contest at Manchester Arena on Saturday July 6, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Sheffield’s most successful amateur of all time made a winning start to life in the paid code with a classy points win over Croatia’s Luka Leskovic at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on May 10.

Smith offered a taste of his huge potential as he dominated his opponent from the opening bell, setting an impressive pace throughout and showcasing a wide variety of shot selection as he cruised to a comfortable 40-36 decision. 

“My debut went just as good as I could have imagined,” said Smith. “I had a long training camp and a lot of media stuff around it and it was down to me to perform on the night. I believe I went out there and put on a good performance. My pro debut is in the bag and those nerves and pressure around it will be gone. I think my second fight will be a lot more enjoyable and I’m looking forward to it.

“I’ve got full confidence in my abilities. I’ve boxed every style out there in the amateurs, so I knew if I stuck to my game plan and stayed calm then I’d perform. Obviously my debut was big, but fighting at Manchester Arena will be another box ticked for me. It’s one of the biggest indoor arenas there is and there’s some big names on the card. There’s a lot of history in that arena and I’ll create a bit of my own on July 6.”

Dalton Smith features on a huge night of boxing in Manchester where Lawrence Okolie (12-0, 9 KOs) puts his British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight titles on the line against Jack Massey (16-0, 8 KOs), Scott Fitzgerald (13-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA International Super-Welterweight title against former World title challenger Brian Rose (31-5-1, 8 KOs) in a huge Preston vs. Blackpool Lancashire derby, Felix Cash (11-0, 7 KOs) defends his Commonwealth Middleweight crown against Bolton’s Jack Cullen (16-1, 7 KOs) and Anthony Fowler (9-1, 8 KOs) returns after his first pro defeat, with more exciting additions to the card to follow.

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) are available to purchase now via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), Manchester Arena via ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com).

Sheffield amateur standout Dalton Smith is dreaming of becoming the next boxing great to come out of the Steel City as he prepares to make his highly-anticipated professional debut at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Friday, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Sheffield has long been a city that produces world-class boxers and Smith, the city’s most successful ever amateur, is hoping to follow in the footsteps of former World Champions such as Herol Graham, Johnny Nelson and Kell Brook.

Fighting out of Sheffield’s Steel City gym, 22-year-old Smith, who is trained by his father Grant Smith alongside WBC Flyweight Champion of the World Charlie Edwards, is excited to begin his journey towards a World title in the professional ranks.

“The ultimate goal is to one day become a World Champion and bring a title back to Sheffield,” said Smith. “It’s about building a legacy. I’ll be setting small goals and then working towards them and then setting bigger goals. But early on, I just want to stay active and gain as much experience as I can. As long as I’m learning all the time then I believe I will get there eventually. I want to have a successful pro career and have some fun along the way.

“Growing up I was massively inspired by Prince Naseem Hamed. Fighters all around the World idolised him, not just here in Sheffield. He was one of the greatest. I want to put my name up in the spotlight alongside the likes of Johnny Nelson, Prince Naz and Ryan Rhodes. Sheffield’s always been a good fighting city and it’s growing again now. I feel if I work hard enough and am guided in the right way, then I feel I can get there.

“I want to stay active up until Christmas, get as many fights in as I can and just learn and push on for next year. I don’t need to rush things as I’m still only 22. The professional game is a new environment for me but having the World Series of Boxing experience behind me is going to put me in good stead. It’s not going to be anything too new to me, I’ve been there before and I think I’ll cope well with the small changes.”

Smith makes his professional debut on a huge night of boxing in Nottingham.

At the top of the bill Chatteris talent Jordan Gill (23-0, 7 KOs) defends his WBA International Featherweight title against Mexico’s Enrique Tinoco (17-5-4, 12 KOs) and Nottingham favourite Leigh Wood (21-1, 11 KOs) makes the first defence of his Commonwealth Featherweight crown against former champion Ryan Doyle (17-3-1, 9 KOs).

Rising Ipswich star Fabio Wardley (6-0, 5 KOs) continues his march up the Heavyweight ladder, exciting New Jersey Super-Featherweight prospect Raymond Ford (1-0) fights in the UK for the first time as a professional, Denaby Lightweight Terri Harper (6-0, 3 KOs) gets another opportunity on the big stage after winning the WBC International Female Lightweight title in her last fight, Bournemouth Cruiserweight Chris Billam-Smith (8-0, 7 KOs) keeps busy ahead of his July showdown with WBA Inter-Continental Champion Richard Riakporhe, Liverpool’s Stephen Smith (25-4, 15 KOs) fights for the first time since 2017 and Crowthorne Featherweight Charles Frankham makes his professional debut.

Remaining tickets priced £40, £60 and £120 (VIP) are available to purchase from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), Motorpoint Arena Nottingham (www.motorpointarenanottingham.com) (Box Office tel: 0843 373 3000) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

Dalton Smith, Sheffield’s most successful ever amateur boxer, has signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

In a glittering amateur career, Smith established himself as one of the very best prospects in the country, winning medals at the junior European Championships and youth Commonwealth Games, as well as representing Team GB around the World and taking on the very best amateurs on the planet in the World Series of Boxing.

Fighting out of Sheffield’s Steel City gym, 22-year-old Smith, who is trained by his father Grant Smith alongside recently crowned WBC Flyweight Champion of the World Charlie Edwards, is expected to make his highly-anticipated debut at Super-Lightweight in May.

“Matchroom Boxing are the number one promotional outfit and I’m excited to begin my professional journey under their guidance,” said Smith. “I’ve known Charlie Edwards for a long time, he turned over with Eddie and I’ve seen the brilliant job Matchroom have done in guiding him towards a World title. I’m confident they can do the same for me.

“It was always my number one goal to represent my country at an Olympic Games but I sat down with my Dad and we decided it was the right decision to turn over. There was a couple of issues with the new weight rules brought in and I had a few hand injuries over the past couple of years. Now feels like the perfect time to make my mark in the pros.

“I’ve got a lot of experience behind me, the World Series of Boxing bouts were basically pro fights, I’ve boxed a lot of Cubans and Kazakhs – the best out there. Moving into the pros won’t be too much of a change for me. I’m only 22 and I’ve got time on my hands. I can afford to take it slowly and make sure that I learn with every fight.

“I’ve had a successful amateur career but people always told me that my style would be well suited in the pro game. I like to sit down on my shots and I’m a bit of a midrange counter puncher. I watch a lot of Canelo Alvarez and try and base my style on his attributes. I believe that my style will adept well to the pros.

“I’ve won every national title from schoolboy to senior. I’ve won a European silver and youth Commonwealth bronze and a lot of gold medals for Great Britain, but the one that stands out for me is winning my first schoolboy title. To win it in my first year was a big thing for me and my dad. My dad brought me and my sisters up as a single parent so I’ve got a close bond with him. I’m lucky to have him on my side and I think we’ll go a long way with the strong relationship that we have.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Dalton to the Matchroom Boxing team,” said Eddie Hearn. “Dalton is Sheffield’s most decorated amateur fighter and joins the pro ranks at a very exciting time with the opportunity to box in the UK, USA and Worldwide with Sky Sports and DAZN. We have a stellar track record of bringing amateur fighters through the pro ranks and we expect Dalton to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Anthony Joshua, Callum Smith, Katie Taylor, Kal Yafai and Charlie Edwards to World titles.”

You can follow Smith’s journey on Twitter: @daltonsmith08 and Instagram: _daltonsmith08